Will Swimming In The Ocean Help Heal My Tattoo?
When you’ve just been tattooed, and it’s a beautiful day at the beach, it’s tempting to think a refreshing dip in the ocean could have healing properties for your new ink. However, at Celebrity Ink, we recommend understanding the implications of ocean water on the tattoo healing process before taking the plunge.
The Healing Process and Ocean Water
Getting a tattoo creates thousands of tiny wounds in your skin, and these need to heal properly to preserve the integrity of your tattoo. Introducing your fresh tattoo to ocean water might sound natural and healing, but in reality, it can have adverse effects.
Salt Water and Healing
While saltwater has known healing properties for many skin conditions, it’s not advisable to immerse a fresh tattoo in it. The high salt content can draw moisture from your skin, causing it to dry out and potentially impede the healing process.
Risk of Infection
The ocean is teeming with bacteria, microorganisms, and other potential contaminants. Immersing a fresh tattoo in ocean water introduces the risk of infection, which can compromise your tattoo’s appearance and lead to health complications.
The Right Time to Swim
Typically, you should wait at least two to three weeks before swimming in the ocean or any other body of water. This time allows the majority of the healing process to occur and the top layers of skin to close up, reducing the risk of infection.
Proper Aftercare
The best way to help your tattoo heal is to follow proper aftercare instructions, which include keeping the area clean and moisturised, avoiding sun exposure, and refraining from picking or scratching at the tattoo.
While the call of the ocean can be strong, especially on a hot Australian day, it’s crucial to resist the temptation to swim with a fresh tattoo. Patience and proper aftercare are key to ensuring your tattoo heals beautifully, maintaining its vibrant colours and sharp lines for years to come. Remember, the team at Celebrity Ink is always available to provide advice and answer any questions you might have about your tattoo healing process. So, hold off on that dip, and give your artwork the best chance to shine.